Here are Some Pros and Cons of Functional and Standard Nutrition

Pros of functional nutrition

Tailored to meet your unique needs

Easier to put into practice because dietary choices are explained by a practitioner who knows your health history and lifestyle practices

Looks at the food you’re eating in the context of your lifestyle practices to make sure you’re nourishing your body well

Cons of functional nutrition

Depending on the expert or practitioner you visit for functional nutrition guidance, it could be more expensive than a standard nutritionist visit

Pros of standard nutrition

Depending on the expert or practitioner, the visit could be less expensive, especially if you’re looking for more general nutrition advice

Cons of standard nutrition

It could be more difficult to put standard nutrition advice into practice depending on a variety of factors, such as being sensitive to the foods recommended, not ruling out the root cause(s) of your symptoms, or the practitioner not fully knowing or understanding your unique history

How to practice functional nutrition

Practicing functional nutrition can look like embracing the holistic health concept as you make daily nutritional choices or incorporating functional nutrition into your work as a wellness practitioner. Many health practitioners, from dietitians to Health Coaches, incorporate functional nutrition by becoming part of an integrative medicine and nutrition team and supporting clients alongside other health professionals to provide the most robust and effective care.

For example, a Health Coach works with clients to establish and reach health goals, but they do not prescribe diet plans or diagnose or treat medical conditions. A Health Coach can refer a client to a functional medicine practitioner for lab work to determine the root cause(s) of their symptoms and help them understand the recommendations provided to keep them accountable to making diet and lifestyle changes.

Whatever path you choose, the most important areas of functional nutrition include:

A focus on real, whole foods – Optimal health is built on a foundation of getting essential nutrients, found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, quality protein, and healthy fat. Remember, one of functional nutrition’s mottos is “food as medicine,” which means eliminating processed foods and eating a balanced diet full of colorful variety.

Taking care of your gut microbiome – With over 70% of your immune system living in your gut, it’s imperative that you support the gut environment through food and lifestyle. A diet full of processed foods can wreak havoc on your gut lining, causing leaky gut and leading to a host of health issues, such as bloating, gas, indigestion, brain fog, and chronic inflammation. Supporting your gut can include eating plenty of fiber, staying hydrated, and being physically active.

Supporting a healthy life off the plate – Areas of your life, such as the quality of your relationships, your stress levels, and even your sleep routine, all impact the way your body processes and assimilates the food you eat. If you don’t sleep well and you experience high stress, you’re not setting your body up for success to utilize the quality nutrients you’re feeding it. A lack of sleep in combination with stress can also cause you to reach for the sugar-laden foods that produce that “feel good” feeling in the brain but quickly cause a crash in both your mood and energy. By taking a look at your life experiences beyond the plate, functional nutrition can support you in making better nutritional choices that fit your needs and goals.